§ Sir Knox Cunninghamasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many civilians are employed by the Royal Air Force at Aldergrove in County Antrim; whether he expects any increase in this number; and if he will make a statement about the future of this service unit.
§ Mr. MillanThe number of civilians employed by the Air Force Department at No. 23 Maintenance Unit, Aldergrove is 1,045, including 31 industrial apprentices. In addition, 116 civilians are employed at the Unit by the Ministry of Public Building and Works, 14 by N.A.A.F.I. and the Unit Canteen Committee and 79 by contractors. These figures exclude personnel employed by the Ministry of Aviation who are responsible for the airfield.
As far as can be foreseen, No. 23 M.U. will continue to be needed as an aircraft supply and servicing depot. The future task of the unit is currently under review, and it is possible that some additional civilians will be needed.